TDF scholarship recipient, Lucy Makaea has become one of the best young surf lifesavers in New Zealand – a world youth champion, no less. And, you could argue, the 18-year-old is Niue’s No.1 surf lifesaver too - even though the island in the middle of the Pacific doesn't have a single surf beach. Makaea's father first left his Niuean village of Mutalau at the age of five, coming to New Zealand with his brothers and grandparents. And Makaea, although born here, has held on tightly to her Niuean roots. “All of my surf lifesaving gear has Polynesian designs, like tapa cloth,” she says. “I try to stay true to my roots through my equipment. I want to expose it to everyone because I’m so proud of it. Click the link to read more.
